I run my thread through either bee's wax or the thread heaven, usually the wax.

I use the americana thread as well if its the color I want at the time. Also use Thread Heaven; thread from the most recently cut end from the spool; use about 18 inch length and let it hang upside down if it gets really tangly.

Sometimes I still get tangles/knots. Oh well.

I USE THE bee's wax thing also.

My thread used to tangle really bad until I read about this. Thread all your needles on the spool at one time without cutting. Then cut your length & knot each needle. I was amazed at the difference it made!

The way thread is manufactured and wound on the spool now makes the threading the same way it comes off the spool not important. There is no right or wrong end. I use short lengths of thread when binding. I thread 30 or more needles at a time on the same thread and cut as needed.

I think the thread conditioner I just is in a little blue box is called Thread Heaven. It helps a lot with all kinds of hand sewing. I usually have several little boxes around.

These are the things that help me. Don't cut off too much thread from wrist to elbow is about right. Be sure to knot the spool end of the thread. You also have to unwind the thread a little......every time I pull my thread thru I turn my needle. I use Mettler or Guenterman (spelling?) thread and I don't wax.

I too do not sew binding without "Magic Thread". I run it thru the wax a couple of times, then run it thru my fingers to distribute the wax before knotting the thread.

I'm not sure about now, but in the past, thread definitely had a nap, so it should be sewn as it comes off the spool (knot end toward spool).

Some manufacturers may have altered their process so the practice no longer applies. I'd still do it if I were you, just in case you happen to be sewing with a manufacturer's line that hasn't implemented the process yet...or in case you happen to be using an old spool of thread.

I hand-sew bindings with the same thread I piece with -- cotton covered polyester.

I agree, you should knot the end coming from the spool. When I don't I always have problems. Also use the wax on my thread. Makes life a lot easier!